Dental Disease
Dental disease is a common problem in all types of pets. Plaque that builds up on the teeth hardens into tartar and causes inflammation of the gums, gingivitis and halitosis (that horrible dog breath smell).
Home oral health care is recommended by veterinarians not only to keep that brilliant white smile, but also to keep your pet healthy. Many animals have secondary health issues related to the infections that arise from periodontal disease.
What can you do to help keep your pet’s mouth and teeth healthy?
Your veterinarian may recommend a professional dental cleaning if the tartar is severe enough to warrant such a procedure. This cleaning is performed under general anesthesia and will remove the tartar and polish the teeth. After this procedure, you can take over home care to prevent future problems.
Home oral health care includes brushing the teeth of your pet. To prevent dental tartar build up, veterinarians recommended daily brushing with toothpaste especially formulated for animals. (No, human toothpaste is not a good option.)
Dry foods are also a better choice than canned food in keeping tartar production decreased as the crunchy texture provides an abrasive action during the pet’s chewing. (Dry diets, however, are not enough alone to keep plaque from forming.)
Remember, poor oral hygiene can cause secondary infections of other body organs, bad breath, and the loss of teeth. Keep your pet’s mouth happy! Ask us how!